Stephens College

Preview Day
2026-02-27 09:30 - 15:00 (America/New_York), 2026-04-02 09:30 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Lela Raney Wood Hall (LRW), 6 N. College Ave, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
This is your opportunity to experience a college and culture that embraces YOU.
We believe in hands-on (we like to call it “hands-IN”), immersive learning, critical thinking and empowering women’s leadership and personal success.

Register For Preview Day

Preview Day Agenda:

9:30 – 10:00 a.m. – Check-in
10:00 – 10:15 a.m. – Welcome to Stephens
10:15 – 11:30 a.m. – Overview of Financial Aid, Academics and Student Experience (Life on Campus and Study Abroad Experience)
11:30 – 11:45 a.m. – Student Panel
11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Campus Tour
12:30 – 1:30 p.m. – Enjoy lunch on us at Stamper Dining Hall and grab your Stephens gear at Susie’s
1:30 – 3:00 p.m. – Immersive Experience

Navigating Creativity through Empowered Voices: Printing Workshop with Screen Queens
2026-03-09 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Catherine Webb Studios, Rm 120
The Kopenhaver Center at Stephens College presents Navigating Creativity through Empowered Voices, a dynamic workshop series exploring the intersection of communication, creativity, and personal expression. The series highlights how empowered voices can shape culture, spark dialogue, and inspire meaningful change.
Join us for hands-on creative experiences, student-led presentations, a pitch competition, and an expert-led virtual workshop with a live Zoom watch party. Together, these events showcase the transformative impact of creativity, collaboration, and confident communication.
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Event: Printing Workshop in Collaboration with Screen Queens Print Shop.
Description: During this protest printing workshop in collaboration with Screen Queens Print Shop, participants will choose from a collection of 4 student-designed protest graphics to print on their own shirt for $5, or one of our provided shirts/totes for $10.
Date: Monday, March 9th between 3pm-5pm
Location: Catherine Webb Studios (CWS), Room 120

Navigating Creativity through Empowered Voices: Student Presentation with Alyson Hicks
2026-03-11 12:30 (America/Chicago) | Dudley, Rm 121
The Kopenhaver Center at Stephens College presents Navigating Creativity through Empowered Voices, a dynamic workshop series exploring the intersection of communication, creativity, and personal expression. The series highlights how empowered voices can shape culture, spark dialogue, and inspire meaningful change.
Join us for hands-on creative experiences, student-led presentations, a pitch competition, and an expert-led virtual workshop with a live Zoom watch party. Together, these events showcase the transformative impact of creativity, collaboration, and confident communication.
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Event: Student Presentation with Alyson Hicks, Business Administration ’26
Description: Alyson Hicks, a Senior in the Business Administration program, will share a presentation on her personal creative process.
Date: Wednesday, March 11th at 12:30pm
Location: Dudley 121

MFA Virtual Open House - Q&A with Director Rosanne Welch
2026-03-11 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
Join us for a Virtual Open House hosted by the MFA in TV and Screenwriting program—your chance to explore what makes our two-year, low-residency model both flexible and creatively invigorating.
Program Director Rosanne Welch will be there to guide you through the application process, share insights into the curriculum, and offer a candid look at what life is like for writers in our unique graduate community.
You’ll also have the opportunity to meet with current graduate assistants, hear about their experiences firsthand, and get answers to any questions you may have about coursework, mentorship, or the day-to-day rhythm of the program.
Whether you’re polishing your portfolio or just beginning to consider an MFA, this open house is the perfect place to envision your next step as a screenwriter.
Held virtually via Zoom – two dates available:
February 4 at 4 pm (PT) | 6 pm (CT) | 7 pm (ET)
March 11 at 5 pm (PT) | 7 pm (CT) | 8 pm (ET)
Register Here

Illuminating Our Ideals: A New Era of Stephens
2026-03-12 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Stephens Library, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215
Stephens Students: Join us as we celebrate the inauguration of President Lundeen and experience the official reveal of the Ten Ideals that will help shape the future of Stephens College. This is not just an event — it’s an immersive glow-in-the-dark experience you do NOT want to miss. Wear neon, white, or anything that glows and come ready to celebrate a new era at Stephens.

7:00 PM – Doors Open | Main Floor Library Check-in | DJ, Mocktails, 360 Photo Booth, and Glow Scavenger Hunt
7:00–7:35 PM – Glow Experience | 3rd Floor | Students explore the library and participate in the scavenger hunt
7:35 PM – Gather for the Reveal |Penthouse
7:40 PM – Ten Ideals Reveal | Penthouse
7:50 PM – Celebration Continues
9:00 PM – Event Concludes

Find more information about the Inauguration events at stephens.edu/inauguration/

Firebringer: A New Stone Age Musical
2026-03-13 - 2026-03-15 | Warehouse Theatre, 104 Willis Avenue, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
A tribe survives with the wise leadership of Jemilla, The Peacemaker. Join her as she travels from omega to alpha to become the Firebringer.
7:30 p.m. on March 13 & 14 | 2 p.m. on March 15
Tickets

Investiture Ceremony & Reception
2026-03-14 10:00 (America/Chicago) | Stephens College Equestrian Center, 203 Old 63 N, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Celebrating the Investiture of Dr. Shannon B. Lundeen, 25th President of Stephens College
Investiture Ceremony & Reception
Doors open at 10:00 a.m.
Ceremony begins at 11:00 a.m.
Reception to follow
Indoor Arena (Located at Stephens College Equestrian Center, 381-499 Old 63 N)
Admission: RSVP required; Ticketed event.
Please contact us at trustee@stephens.edu for any questions you may have about the inaugural events.

WORKING
2026-03-18 - 2026-03-20 | Macklanburg Playhouse, 100 Willis Ave, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Based on Studs Terkel’s best-selling book of interviews with American workers.
This examination of 26 people from all walks of life proves that it’s more than just a job for the average working American.
Working the Musical is a vibrant, deeply human celebration of everyday people and the jobs they do. Based on Studs Terkel’s bestselling book, this newly updated version features songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Stephen Schwartz, James Taylor, Craig Carnelia and other acclaimed composers. Told through a series of moving, funny, and relatable monologues and songs, Working shines a spotlight on the voices of teachers, truck drivers, waitresses, caregivers, and more—honoring their hopes, dreams, and dignity. It’s a powerful, heartfelt tribute to the resilience and spirit of the American workforce.
From the book by Studs Terkel
Adapted by Stephen Schwartz and Nina Faso
Featuring new songs by Tony Award-winning Lin-Manuel Miranda, as well as favorites by Stephen Schwartz, Craig Carnelia, James Taylor, Micki Grant, and more.
WORKING is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
7:30 p.m. on March 18, 19, 20 | 11 a.m. on March 20

Tickets

Conservatory Preview and Accepted Student Day
2026-03-20 09:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Macklanburg Playhouse, 100 Willis Ave, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Welcome to the next stage of your artistic journey.
Preview & Accepted Student Day is your chance to experience the Conservatory as a future member of our community. Join other students for an exciting look at academic life, performance opportunities, and the collaborative spirit that makes our Conservatory exceptional.
Guests will attend the matinee of Working the Musical, directed by composer Craig Carnelia, meet your future mentors, connect with potential classmates, and explore the campus. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about housing, student life, financial aid, and the many ways you can shape your Conservatory experience.
We can’t wait to welcome you—and help you envision the incredible possibilities ahead.
Register Here

Spring Break
2026-03-21 - 2026-03-29 | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Classes will not be held March 21 – 29 for Spring Break, campus will remain open.

MFA Virtual Open House - Q&A with Director Rosanne Welch
2026-04-15 18:00 - 19:00, 2026-04-26 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
Join us for a Virtual Open House hosted by the MFA in TV and Screenwriting program—your chance to explore what makes our two-year, low-residency model both flexible and creatively invigorating.
Program Director Rosanne Welch will be there to guide you through the application process, share insights into the curriculum, and offer a candid look at what life is like for writers in our unique graduate community.
You’ll also have the opportunity to meet with current graduate assistants, hear about their experiences firsthand, and get answers to any questions you may have about coursework, mentorship, or the day-to-day rhythm of the program.
Whether you’re polishing your portfolio or just beginning to consider an MFA, this open house is the perfect place to envision your next step as a screenwriter.
Held virtually via Zoom – two dates available:
April 15 at 4 pm (PT) | 6 pm (CT) | 7 pm (ET)
April 26 at 5 pm (PT) | 7 pm (CT) | 8 pm (ET)
Register Here

2026 Spring Research Conference
2026-04-16 08:30 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Join us on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

The School of Health Sciences is excited to announce its annual 2026 Spring Research Conference, centered on the theme “Leadership & Discovery: Science & Health for the Future”

This dynamic event will showcase groundbreaking research through engaging keynote speakers and student-led presentations, highlighting advancements shaping the future of health and wellness. Join us as we celebrate innovation and discovery in the health sciences.

Details

The annual 2026 Spring Research Conference will be hosted at the Stephens College campus in Columbia, Missouri.

This event is free and open to the public.

Spring Research Conference Information

Author Talk with Karen Rudolph, author of "Sidelined No Longer: The Untold Story of Women’s College Sports."
2026-04-19 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Stamper Commons, 1300 E Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Karen Rudolph, author of “Sidelined No Longer: The Untold Story of Women’s College Sports”, will give an author talk on Sunday, April 19, at 4:30 p.m. (CST) in the Upper Student Union in Stamper Commons (1300 E Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201). Livestream will also be available on the Stephens College YouTube Channel. RSVP for the event here.
Hear from author Karen Rudolph as she traces the rise of women’s intercollegiate athletics through the experiences of pioneering leaders, including former Stephens College instructor and coach Jean Cerra (pictured below). Teaching at Stephens from 1971–1976, Cerra set rigorous academic and athletic expectations before moving to the University of Missouri to help build women’s sports programs. Jean Cerra taught courses in kinesiology, sports techniques, and the teaching of physical education, as well as supervising the secondary physical education training program.

Drawing from her own experience as a Title IX–era student-athlete, journalist, and coach, Karen highlights the determination of women who fought for equal funding, recognition, and opportunities. Their stories reveal that the true legacy of early women’s athletics extends beyond wins and championships to expanding opportunities for future generations.

Fostering Community Connection
2026-04-22 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Zoom
Join us for a virtual workshop featuring a dynamic speaker who will share insights from her experience in storytelling, collaboration, and community engagement.
April 22, 1:00pm (CST) | Register here.
Speaker: Lindsey Weber ’08 | Community Relations Manager | St. Louis
St. Louis native and proud 2008 graduate of Stephens College, Lindsey Weber has been making an impact with the St. Louis Cardinals since 2012. As Community Relations Manager, she partners with the team’s charitable foundation, Cardinals Care, to champion meaningful change through granting wishes for critically ill children, supporting local nonprofits, advancing inclusivity at the ballpark, and leading fundraising efforts for vital community causes. Lindsey is also a proud member of the Stephens College Board of Trustees.
Moderator: Caylin Capra-Thomas | Author, Professor of English & Creative Writing | Stephens College

Alumni Weekend 2026
2026-04-23 - 2026-04-25 | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Come Home to Stephens!
Alumni Weekend 2026 – April 23-25, 2026
Mark your calendars and make plans to return to campus for Alumni Weekend 2026—a time to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate all things Stephens. Whether you’re catching up with classmates, cheering on our students, or simply taking in the beauty of campus in spring, this will be a weekend to remember.
Full agenda available here.
Reconnect, Relive, and Celebrate
Haven’t been back to campus in a while? Now’s the time to rediscover the heart of Stephens College. Spend quality time with today’s students who are writing their own chapters of history. Catch up with current and retired faculty. Celebrate the service and accomplishments of amazing alumni. And, as always, immerse yourself in the warmth and spirit of Stephens.
We’re thrilled to welcome you back to campus! Registration is now open—don’t miss your chance to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate all things Stephens!
Register here
Have questions or need assistance? Contact us at alums@stephens.edu or (573) 876-7110.
We can’t wait to see you in April—make your plans today!

2026 Honors Convocation
2026-04-23 11:00 (America/Chicago) | Lela Raney Wood Hall (LRW), 6 N. College Ave, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Honors Convocation is one of the most cherished academic traditions at Stephens College. Held each spring, this formal ceremony brings the campus community together to recognize outstanding students, faculty, and alumnae for their achievements, leadership, and service.
During Honors Convocation, students are awarded scholarships, academic honors, and special recognitions that celebrate excellence across disciplines and areas of campus life. The event highlights Stephens’ commitment to integrity, scholarship, and personal growth—and serves as a meaningful moment of reflection as the academic year draws to a close.

Senior Portfolio Artist Talks
2026-04-23 17:30 - 18:30 (America/Chicago) | Davis Art Gallery, 1414 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Davis Gallery, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Wine and Light Snacks provided.

Harbinger Launch Party
2026-04-23 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | Hugh Stephens Library Penthouse, 100 Waugh St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Join us for an evening of celebration as we recognize the contributors and staff of Harbinger and usher the newest edition out into the world! There will be refreshments for all, and a broadside display in the lower floor of the library.

Curtain Up!
2026-04-24 - 2026-04-26 | Macklanburg Playhouse, 100 Willis Ave, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
A dynamic showcase from the Conservatory for the Performing Arts.
Join us for Curtain Up!, a brand new and dynamic showcase from the Conservatory for the Performing Arts that celebrates the talent, passion, and versatility of our students. This 90-minute performance features an exciting blend of music, acting, and dance—highlighting original and classic works brought to life with heart and artistry. From comedic short plays and show-stopping vocals to captivating choreography, Curtain Up is an inspiring evening of performance that shines a spotlight on the next generation of performing artists. Don’t miss this vibrant celebration of creativity and craft!
7:30 p.m. on April 24 & 25 | 2 p.m. on April 26

Tickets

Susie's Pop Up & Spring Student-Design Drop
2026-04-24 11:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago)
Check out the Susie’s pop-up in the quad outside the Firestone Baars Chapel between 11am-3pm on Friday, April 24th! This event will feature Susie’s spring student-designed merchandise drop, highlighting work created by Stephens students in Creative Ink.

The regular store location will also be open prior to the pop-up from 9-11 a.m. on Friday, April 24 to accommodate the Alumni Weekend festivities.

The Collections 82nd Annual Fashion Show
2026-04-25 | Windsor Auditorium
The 82nd Annual Collections Fashion Show will be held at Stephens College on Saturday, April 25th in Windsor Auditorium.

Come join us for the 82nd annual student designer fashion show, The Collections. Show times are April 25th at 2:00pm, 4:30pm, and 7:00pm in the Windsor Auditorium on the Stephens College Campus. The Collections is a culmination of the students’ creative work over the course of the academic year.
Year after year, Stephens College fashion students set their sights on what they believe to be fashion’s new vision. By layering past and present and exploring the connections between them, we were led to this year’s theme – Interwoven. Interwoven envisions fashion as a reflection of our shared experiences, where garments and people are shaped through connection. Every garment layers moments, movements, and memories, carrying the past forward. We all carry a heritage; collecting and expanding stories, experiences, and connections as we interweave with the people, places, and communities we encounter. These convergences create the fabric of a moment in time. Each garment, like each person, is woven and shaped to layer our histories throughout its journey, becoming something unified, textured, and deeply human. Thus, clothing becomes a physical record of our shared humanity, and a visible expression of our collective narrative.
Premier ticket holders enjoy premium seating at the show, ensuring an unparalleled viewing experience. Additionally, their experience is further enhanced with a Swag Bag filled with locally sourced products.
For more information, visit: thecollectionsfashionshow.com or email: fashion@stephens.edu
Buy Tickets on EventBrite
Take a look behind the scenes with this Inside Columbia article!

Preview Day - Heritage and Horizons
2026-04-25 08:00 (America/Chicago) | Stephens College, 1200 E. Broadway, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Preview Day – Heritage and Horizons
Ideal for Freshmen – Juniors in High School
Register For Preview Day
Preview Day Agenda:

8:45 – 9:00 a.m. – Check-in
9:00 – 9:15 a.m. – Welcome
9:15 – 9:30 a.m. – Young Alumni Panel (Heritage)
9:45 – 10:00 a.m. – Student Panel (Horizon)
10:00 a.m. – 10:45 p.m. – Overview of Academics and Student Experience
10:45 – 11:45 p.m. – Campus Tours
11:45 – 12:45 p.m. – Enjoy lunch on us at Stamper Dining Hall

Afternoon options (Pre-registration Required):

12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Prince of Wales Centennial Luncheon & Equestrian Experience | Equestrian Arena | Transportation Provided | Meet in LRW Parking Lot
Fashion Shows: 2:00 p.m. | 4:30 p.m. | 7:00 p.m. The Collections Fashion Show | Windsor Auditorium
Conservatory Show: 7:30 p.m. “Curtain up” – Senior Theatre Showcase | Macklanburg Playhouse

Swift Night Out: A Tour of Bird-Friendly Chimneys in Downtown Columbia
2026-04-28 19:00 - 20:45 (America/Chicago) | 6th & Cherry, 555 Locust St, Columbia, Missouri, 65201, United States
Join the US Fish & Wildlife Service and Columbia Audubon Society to explore the architecture of downtown Columbia from the perspective of Chimney Swifts and to watch for possible roosting activity during Spring Migration. Meet at the corner of 6th and Cherry (in front of the parking garage) at 7:00 p.m. Total round trip walking distance will likely be ~1 mile on city streets. We’ll return to the starting point by 8:45 p.m. Bring binoculars if you have them.
This walk is co-sponsored by US Fish & Wildlife Service and Columbia Audubon Society.
Questions? Contact Erin Holmes at erin_l_holmes@fws.gov.
Download the events flyer here.

Stephens Wears Prada: Global Alumni Event
2026-05-01 - 2026-05-03
Join fellow Stephens College alumni near you for “Stephens Wears Prada“, a global alumni watch party celebrating The Devil Wears Prada 2 during opening weekend (May 1-May 3). Dress in your most fabulous fashion, attend the movie together, snap photos, and share your standout style while reconnecting with fellow alums.
Find an event in your city—or host your own—through the Stephens Alumni Facebook Page.
Be sure to tag the Stephens College Facebook or Instagram pages and use hashtags, #StephensWearsPrada & #StephensCollegeAlum.
Hosted by Stephens College Alumni; contact alums@stephens.edu for questions.

Senior Portfolio Closing Reception
2026-05-01 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Chicago) | Davis Art Gallery, 1414 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Come join us for a closing reception with savory dinner snacks in Davis Gallery. The showcase features student work from Communication Design and Film students. May 1, 5:00-6:00 p.m.

Stephens Life Spring 2026 Release Party
2026-05-01 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Hugh Stephens Library Penthouse, 100 Waugh St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Please join us for the release of the spring 2026 issue of Stephens Life Magazine! This event will be held at the Stephens College Penthouse (5th floor of the library) from 6-7 pm. Students will talk about their work and we will have merchandise, created by the students, that will be for sale. Refreshments will be served.
This event is coordinated with the Senior Portfolio Exhibition closing reception in the Davis Gallery (5-6pm).

Paws for Performance: Adoption Event
2026-05-02 16:00 - 18:00 (America/Chicago) | Davis Art Gallery, 1414 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Join us for Paws for Performance on May 2 from 4:00–6:00 PM at the Davis Art Gallery at Stephens College! 🐾
Students in the Animal Training course will showcase foster dogs from Columbia Second Chance as they demonstrate the skills and good doggy manners they have been learning through positive reinforcement training. Come cheer on these amazing dogs and meet potential new best friends looking for forever homes!
Enjoy refreshments, a silent auction, and pet supply donation bins inside the gallery, with the dog showcase taking place in the courtyard just outside.
Hosted by the Stephens College Animal Training Course in collaboration with Columbia Second Chance.

2016 THROWBACK Late Night Breakfast
2026-05-04 21:00 - 23:00 (America/Chicago) | Lela Raney Wood Hall (LRW), 6 N. College Ave, Columbia, MO, 65215, United States
Students, we’re ending the year the only way that makes sense… a 2016 THROWBACK Late Night Breakfast 💅. Join us on May 4th from 9-11pm in the ballroom for our final event of the year. Think peak 2016 vibes, chaotic fun, and the perfect study break before finals hit.

What’s waiting for you:

🍳 FREE breakfast food (because we care about you fr)
🎮 Games & activities
🎁 Big prizes + giveaways
👑 Drag queen show (yes… it’s going to be THAT good)

Pull up in your best 2016 era fit. Think messy bun, Adidas track pants, chokers, Vine energy, whatever feels iconic to you. Come eat, laugh, vibe, and celebrate making it through the year 🫶

Hosted by the Office of Student Experience.
